LED replacement lighting element

Abstract

A light emitting diode (LED) light element includes a support portion, and a LED assembly mounted to the support portion. The LED assembly includes a plurality of LEDs mounted thereto and conductors extending therefrom. A lens is configured to engage the support portion and cover the LEDs. A pair of end caps are configured to cover ends of the support portion and lens. Each end cap includes first portions configured to enclose its respective support portion and lens ends. Each end cap includes a second portion having a periphery that is smaller than a periphery of the first portion. Each end cap has a pair of pins extending therefrom that are in electrical communication with the LED assembly via the conductors.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A LED light element comprising:
 a support portion; 
 a LED assembly mounted to the support portion, the LED assembly including a plurality of LEDs mounted thereto, the LED assembly having conductors extending therefrom; 
 a lens configured to engage the support portion, the lens covering the LEDs; 
 a pair of end caps, the end caps configured to cover ends of the support portion and lens, each end cap including a first circular portion configured to enclose its respective support portion and lens end, each end cap including a second circular portion having a diameter and a periphery that is smaller than a diameter and a periphery of the first circular portion, wherein the second portion extends in an off-center configuration from the first portion and wherein the second portion is eccentric relative to the first portion, each end cap having a pair of pins extending from the second portions, the pins being in electrical communication with the LED assembly via the conductors. 
 
     
     
       2. The light element of  claim 1  wherein the lens includes a pair of flexible retaining fingers extending therefrom, the retaining fingers configured to engage the LED light assembly when the lens is in place on the support portion. 
     
     
       3. The light element of  claim 1  wherein the second portion has a diameter of about ⅝ inches and wherein the first portion has a diameter of at least about 1 inch. 
     
     
       4. The light element of  claim 1  wherein the support portion and the lens include securing elements to secure the lens to the mounting portion. 
     
     
       5. The light element of  claim 4  wherein the securing elements include cooperating flanges on opposing sides of the support portion and the lens. 
     
     
       6. The light element of  claim 1  wherein a point on a periphery of the second portion is coincidental with a point on a periphery of the first portion. 
     
     
       7. The light element of  claim 1  wherein the pins extend from the second portion along a diameter of the second portion. 
     
     
       8. The light element of  claim 1  wherein the support portion includes a planar mounting surface and an arcuate outer wall, and wherein the LED assembly is mounted to the planar mounting surface. 
     
     
       9. The light element of  claim 8  wherein the arcuate outer wall has a scalloped profile.